In the high-octane world of NASCAR, two names have ignited the chatter this season: Shane van Gisbergen, the New Zealand road course ace whose impact in NASCAR has been electric since his 2023 debut, and Connor Zilisch, an 19-year-old rising star making waves in the Xfinity Series with early victories and remarkable adaptability. As SVG’s road course prowess is well known by now and widely hyped, the narrative about his potential as a multifaceted Cup Series contender has dominated discussions. However, a surprising voice now questions that established buzz.

Denny Hamlin, a seasoned Cup Series veteran and respected analyst, has offered a striking assessment of young Zilisch’s readiness and potential, an evaluation that challenges the elevated expectations surrounding SVG. Hamlin’s perspec

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